Facebook Data Use Policy Changes

The new Data Use Policy includes changes that, among other things, make it clear “that when you, or friends have authorized the use of an App, you are sharing your info with that App…”

Another change in the “Mobile and Other Devices” section reads: “You provide consent and all rights necessary to enable users to sync (including through an application) their devices with any information that is visible to them on Facebook.”

These changes to the policy make it clear that the information you share with friends can be accessed by their mobile devices and by third party Facebook apps or phone apps that they authorize.

Controlling Information Shared with Friends

You can read more about how to control the information that is shared with friends here.

Part of an FTC Settlement

As part of an FTC settlement, Facebook must get approval from its users when it changes the ways in which it shares users’ information. Users have an opportunity to vote on these changes. “If more than 7,000 users comment on a proposed change, we will also give you the opportunity to participate in a vote in which you will be provided alternatives. The vote shall be binding on us if more than 30% of all active registered users as of the date of the notice vote.” You can comment on the policy changes here until 5:00 PM Pacific Time on March 22, 2012.